Pubs urged not to fall foul of TV Licensing

With the football season underway, many pubs will be showing live games.

Published:09:00Saturday 23 July 2016

With the new Scottish football season now underway, many pubs and clubs will be showing live games on their TV screens.

To coincide with this, TV Licensing has launched a campaign in partnership with the Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SBPA) to ensure pubs and clubs are correctly covered by a licence to show live coverage of matches.

Pubs, clubs or sporting venues which show live television must have a valid TV Licence.

Pubs without a valid licence are breaking the law and run the risk of a court prosecution and fine of up to £1000 per offence plus costs.

Fergus Reid, TV Licensing spokesman for Scotland, said: “Many fans will be looking to watch live matches in their local pub and soak up the atmosphere with friends.

“Ahead of the start of the season, we want managers and publicans of pubs and clubs to make sure they’re on the right side of the law, so their customers can enjoy watching the action without worrying about whether they’re correctly licensed.”

TV Licensing officers will visit unlicensed addresses throughout the season.

Fergus added: “To be fair to the majority who do pay the licence fee, we have to take action against those who try to get away with not paying.”

Brigid Simmonds, chief executive of the SBPA said: “Offering live coverage of televised sport is a great way for licensed outlets to encourage footfall and boost trade, so obtaining a TV Licence can be an essential part of supporting the business.”

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